Authentication concealment and alignment systems

ABSTRACT

An authentication apparatus configured to identify a user comprises a scanning apparatus configured to capture identifying information of the user and a feedback apparatus configured to communicate alignment information for the scanning apparatus to a user. A controller is in communication with the scanning apparatus and the alignment apparatus. The controller is configured to activate the feedback apparatus to reveal the alignment information identifying an alignment with the scanning apparatus. The controller is further configured to capture the identifying information of the user and identify the user in response to the identifying information.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/736,132 entitled AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONCEALMENT APPARATUS, filed on Sep. 25, 2018, by David M. Bostrom, et al. and 62/767,626 entitled AUTHENTICATION CONCEALMENT AND ALIGNMENT SYSTEMS, filed on Nov. 15, 2018, by Joshua D. Lintz, et al., the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to an authentication or identification system and, more particularly, to an identification system configured to change states to disguise or conceal a location in which the system is located or mounted.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an authentication apparatus configured to identify a user is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a scanning apparatus configured to capture identifying information of the user and a feedback apparatus configured to communicate alignment information for the scanning apparatus to a user. A controller is in communication with the scanning apparatus and the alignment apparatus. The controller is configured to activate the feedback apparatus to reveal the alignment information identifying an alignment with the scanning apparatus. The controller is further configured to capture the identifying information of the user and identify the user in response to the identifying information.

These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an illustrative view of an authentication system comprising a scanning apparatus and a concealment apparatus incorporated in an automotive vehicle;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a scanning apparatus and a concealment apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart demonstrating a method of controlling an authentication system comprising a scanning apparatus and a concealment apparatus;

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprising a feedback apparatus in the form of a visual display;

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprising a feedback apparatus in the form of a reflective device;

FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprising a feedback apparatus in the form of a backlit image;

FIG. 4D is a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprising a feedback apparatus in the form of a diffractive optical element;

FIG. 4E is a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprising a feedback apparatus configured to display a static image; and

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an identification system incorporating a scanning apparatus disposed in a mirror assembly in accordance with the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer of the mirror element, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer of the mirror element. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary embodiment of an authentication system 10 is shown. In general, the system 10 may comprise a scanning apparatus 12 configured to capture data that may be used to identify and authenticate a potential user or operator. In some embodiments, the system 10 may be configured to capture biometric data in the form of image data, which may be processed by a controller to load, authorize, unlock, and/or verify one or more privileges, actions, and/or transactions associated with the system 10. The disclosure may provide for the system 10 to be implemented in a number of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the system may comprise a display screen configured to provide a preview of the scanning data or image data captured by the scanning apparatus. In some embodiments, the system may also or alternatively provide for visual feedback identifying the content of the scanning data via a reflective device or mirror. In this way, the system 10 may be configured to capture the scanning data and provide feedback to an operator or user in a number of ways.

In various embodiments, the system 10 may comprise a scanning apparatus 12. As demonstrated in FIG. 1, the system 10 may additionally comprise a concealment apparatus 14, which may be configured to selectively mask or hide the scanning apparatus 12 and/or a feedback apparatus 15. As further discussed in reference to various embodiments herein, the feedback apparatus 15 may be configured to visually represent an extent or content of the scanning data such that a position or orientation of the operator or user may be adjusted. In this way, the system 10 may provide feedback information, alignment information, and/or instructions to ensure that the system may operate effectively without undue hardship for users. In this way, the system 10 may be incorporated in a portion of the vehicle 16 or similar structure in a way that disguises or masks the system 10 from view.

As shown in FIG. 1, the system 10 may be incorporated in an automotive vehicle 16. However, the system 10 may be implemented in a variety of settings to provide authentication for access to barriers or entry doors, authorization of transactions (e.g. banking transactions, purchases, etc.), and various additional applications that may benefit from secure authorization of a user 18. In some embodiments, the concealment apparatus 14 may provide for the location of the scanning apparatus 12 and/or the feedback apparatus 15 to be concealed such that the incorporation in the vehicle may not be visibly apparent or perceptible. In some embodiments, the concealment apparatus 14 may be configured to change from a concealed configuration 14 a to a scanning configuration 14 b. Similarly, in some embodiments, one or more components of the system 10 may only be visible from predefined angles or positions in relation to the vehicle 16. In this way, the disclosure may provide for a flexible solution that may be implemented in a variety of ways to suit a desired operation or application.

In some embodiments, the scanning apparatus 12 may be disposed or incorporated in various portions of the vehicle 16 to provide for access to various compartments or portions of the vehicle 16. For example, the user 18 may be authorized to access a trunk of the vehicle to receive a delivery or collect an item. In this way, the system 10 may provide for selective access through one or more gates, doors, access panels and may be additionally be operable to provide an authorization for a user to complete various operations or transactions. Accordingly, the scanning apparatus 12 may be incorporated in various portions of the vehicle 16 (e.g. a pillar, trunk, spoiler, hood, roof, etc.) or various other structures for convenient incorporation in a variety of environments. The various beneficial aspects of the system 10 are further discussed in the following detailed description.

In some embodiments, the scanning apparatus 12 may be operable to perform an identification function, which may be activated upon detection of the user 18 interacting or being detected proximate to the scanning apparatus 12 via a proximity sensor located in the panel 25 of the vehicle 16. The proximity sensor may be configured to communicate a detection signal identifying that the user 18 may be proximate the scanning apparatus 12 or user 18 is adjacent to the vehicle 16. The proximity sensor may also be configured to detect a distance of the user 18 to the vehicle 16 in the z-axis direction, which may be projected normal to a surface of a b-pillar of the vehicle 16 or the vehicle panel 25. In this configuration, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to activate an identification or alignment operation of the scanning apparatus 12 in response to the detection of the user 18 within a predetermined distance in the z-direction.

Once the scanning apparatus is activated, a controller of the system 10 may control an electro-optic device 20 to change a transmittance of the concealment apparatus 14. In response to the activation, the controller may apply a control to an electrical signal (e.g. a voltage potential) applied to the electro-optic device to change the electro-optic device 20 from a substantially opaque state in the concealed configuration 14 a to a substantially transparent or light transmissive state in the scanning configuration 14 b. In this way, the controller may selectively reveal the location of the scanning apparatus 12 such that the user 18 may align one or more identifying features (e.g. a face, iris, fingerprint, palm print and outline, etc.) with the scanning apparatus 12. Accordingly, the system 10 may be configured to be selectively revealed to the user 18 to process an authentication or identification routine.

The electro-optic device 20 of the concealment apparatus 14 may correspond to an electrochromic element. The electrochromic element may comprise an electrochromic medium, which includes at least one solvent, at least one anodic material, and at least one cathodic material. Typically, both of the anodic and cathodic materials are electroactive and at least one of them is electrochromic. It will be understood that regardless of its ordinary meaning, the term “electroactive” will be defined herein as a material that undergoes a modification in its oxidation state upon exposure to a particular electrical potential difference. Additionally, it will be understood that the term “electrochromic” will be defined herein, regardless of its ordinary meaning, as a material that exhibits a change in its extinction coefficient at one or more wavelengths upon exposure to a particular electrical potential difference.

Electrochromic components, as described herein, include materials whose color or opacity are affected by electric current, such that when an electrical current is applied to the material, the color or opacity changes from a first phase to a second phase. The electrochromic component may be a single-layer, single-phase component, multi-layer component, or multi-phase component, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,572 entitled “Electrochromic Layer and Devices Comprising Same,” U.S. Pat. No. 5,998,617 entitled “Electrochromic Compounds,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,020,987 entitled “Electrochromic Medium Capable of Producing a Pre-selected Color,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,037,471 entitled “Electrochromic Compounds,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,141,137 entitled “Electrochromic Media for Producing a Preselected Color,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,916 entitled “Electrochromic System,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,193,912 entitled “Near Infrared-Absorbing Electrochromic Compounds and Devices Comprising Same,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,249,369 entitled “Coupled Electrochromic Compounds With Photostable Dication Oxidation States,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,137,620 entitled “Electrochromic Media With Concentration-Enhanced Stability, Process for the Preparation Thereof and Use in Electrochromic Devices,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,519,072, entitled “Electrochromic Device”; and International Patent Application Serial Nos. PCT/US98/05570 entitled “Electrochromic Polymeric Solid Films, Manufacturing Electrochromic Devices Using Such Solid Films, and Processes For Making Such Solid Films And Devices,” and PCT/EP98/03862 entitled “Electrochromic Polymer System,” which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In some embodiments, the concealment apparatus 14 may additionally comprise the feedback apparatus 15 comprising an alignment feature 22. The alignment feature 22 may be provided in the form of a mirror device 24, which may be selectively revealed in the scanning configuration 14 b. The mirror device 24 may be incorporated or formed as a constituent layer of the electro-optic device 20 as shown in FIG. 2. The mirror device 24 may provide for a visual alignment tool for the user 18 to align a facial feature 26, eye 28, and/or various identifying features with the scanning apparatus. For example, the user 18 may view a reflection 30 of the identifying feature in the mirror device 24 to align the feature with the scanning apparatus 12. In some embodiments, the mirror device 24 may comprise one or more alignment features 22, as well as light indicators 34, which may assist the user 18 to align the reflection 30 of the identifying feature and indicate a status of the authentication processed by the system 10, respectively.

In the concealed configuration 14 a, the system 10 may be configured to control the concealment apparatus 14 to match an appearance of a panel 25, which may be located neighboring or adjacent to the concealment apparatus 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the concealment apparatus 14 may be controlled by the controller of the system 10 to adjust a state of the electro-optic device 20 to a substantially opaque condition to achieve the concealed configuration 14 a. In the concealed configuration 14 a, an exterior surface 36 of the concealment apparatus 14 may be darkened to an opaque color, which may correspond to one or more chemical properties of an electro-optic medium 68 of the electro-optic device 20. In an exemplary embodiment, the electro-optic device 20 may be configured to transition from a black appearance in the concealed configuration 14 a to a comparatively transparent appearance in the scanning configuration 14 b. In this way, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to adjust the appearance of the exterior surface 36 to change from a colored appearance that substantially matches the panel 25 to a light transmissive state configured to reveal the mirror device 24. Accordingly, the system 10 may provide for the mirror device 24 to be selectively revealed to assist the user 18 in alignment with the scanning apparatus 12.

Referring now to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the scanning apparatus 12 may provide for the system 10 to identify or authenticate the user 18 of a vehicle 16 based on the eye-scan identification function. The eye-scan-identification function may utilize an infrared illumination of an iris of the eye 28 in order to illuminate the eye 28 for the identification. Such illumination may be optimized in conditions allowing for a high optical transmittance in the near-infrared (NIR) range. In some embodiments, the disclosure may provide for an electrochromic (EC) stack of the electro-optic device 20 that may have a high light transmittance in the NIR range, for example, wavelengths of light ranging from 800 nm to 940 nm. In some embodiments, the range of wavelengths may comprise a range from approximately 700 nm to 940 nm. Additionally, in some implementations, the electro-optic device 20 may comprise a plurality of light sources 44 configured to illuminate at least one iris of the user 18 of the vehicle 16.

To provide for the eye-scan-identification function, for example, an iris scan, an image sensor 42 of the scanning apparatus 12 may be disposed proximate to a rear surface of the electro-optic device 20. The image sensor 42 may correspond to, for example, a digital charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) active pixel sensor, although may not be limited to these exemplary devices. The image sensor 42 may be in communication with at least one light source 44, which may correspond to one or more infrared emitters 44 a configured to output an emission 54 of light in the NIR range (e.g. 700 nm to 940 nm, 750 nm to 800 nm, etc.). In some embodiments, wavelengths ranging from 750 nm to 800 nm may be utilized for the emission or 750 nm to 800 nm to suit one or more iris recognition functions. In this configuration, the image sensor 42 may be configured to selectively activate the one or more infrared emitters 44 a corresponding to the at least one light source 44 to illuminate the iris such that an identity of a user 18 of the vehicle 16 may be determined.

The infrared emitters 44 a or the light sources 44 may correspond to a plurality of infrared emitter banks. Each of the infrared emitter banks 46 may comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes, which may be grouped in a matrix or otherwise grouped and disposed behind a rear surface 48 of the electro-optic device 20. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of light sources 44 may correspond to a first emitter bank 46 a and a second emitter bank 46 b. In this configuration, each of the emitter banks 46 may be configured to output the emission 54 in the NIR range or other wavelengths of light from the exterior surface 36. In this configuration, the scanning apparatus 12 may be configured to illuminate the eye 28 or eyes of the user 18 such that the image sensor 42 may capture image data including details of the iris or irises.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first emitter bank 46 a and/or the second emitter bank 46 b may correspond to more or fewer LEDs or banks of LEDs. In some embodiments, the electro-optic device 20 and the mirror device 24 may have a high level of transmittance in the NIR range. Examples of electro-optic assemblies having a high level of transmittance in the NIR range may correspond to assemblies comprising the mirror device 24 having a transflective dielectric coating disposed on a fourth surface of the electro-optic device as further disclosed herein. In some embodiments comprising an electro-optic device 20 having a lower level of transmittance in the NIR range, the scanning apparatus 12 may utilize a greater number of or more intense LEDs. Electro-optic assemblies having a lower level of transmittance in the NIR range may correspond to assemblies comprising the mirror device 24 having a metal-based, transflective coating disposed on a third surface of the electro-optic device.

The image sensor 42 may be disposed on a circuit 50, for example, a printed circuit board in communication with a controller. The controller may further be in communication with various devices that may be incorporated in the vehicle 16 via the communication bus or any other suitable communication interface. The controller may correspond to one or more processors or circuits, which may be configured to process image data received from the image sensor 42. In this configuration, the image data may be communicated from the image sensor 42 to the controller. The controller may process the image data with one or more algorithms configured to determine an identity of the user 18 of the vehicle 16. Further detailed discussion of the controller and the various devices that may be in communication therewith are discussed in reference to FIG. 5.

The alignment feature 22 may be formed as a portion of the mirror device 24 and may be visible by the user viewing the exterior surface 36 of the concealment apparatus 14 in the scanning configuration 14 b. In this configuration, a field of view of the image sensor 42 may be directed in a detection direction 52 configured to capture reflected light from detection emissions 54 output from the infrared emitters 44 a. The alignment feature 22 may be aligned with the field of view of the image sensor 42 along the detection direction 52 such that the user 18 may align the identifying feature (e.g. the facial feature 26, eyes 28, etc.) with the field of view of the image sensor 42 by aligning the reflection 30 of the identifying features with the mirror device 24. The alignment feature 22 may correspond to one or more shapes or patterns that may be visible in the reflection 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the alignment feature 22 may be etched or laser ablated into the mirror device 24. In this configuration, the system 10 may provide for visible markers on the exterior surface 36 enabling the user to align the identifying features (e.g. the facial features 26, eyes 28, etc.).

The indicators 34 may be in communication with the controller and configured to output a signal to identify a state of the scanning apparatus 12. The indicator 34 may correspond to or be aligned with the light sources 44, which may correspond to visible light sources 44 b. The visible light sources 44 b may be operable to flash and/or change colors to communicate a state of the scanning apparatus 12. In an exemplary embodiment, the indicators 34 may be aligned with one or more etched or laser-ablated portions of the mirror device 24 such that visible light from the visible light sources 44 b may pass through the mirror device 24 and illuminate the indicators 34. The visible light sources 44 b may comprise light emitting diodes (LED), and in an exemplary embodiment, the visible light sources 44 b may correspond to a red, green, and blue (RGB) LED operable to identify the state of the scanning apparatus 12 by outputting one or more colored emissions of light.

Still referring to FIG. 2, as previously discussed, the feedback apparatus 15 may comprise the mirror device 24. The mirror device 24 may form a portion of the electro-optic device 20. The mirror device 24 may include a first substrate 62 having a first surface 62 a and a second surface 62 b. The mirror device 24 may further comprise a second substrate 64 having a third surface 64 a and a fourth surface 64 b. The first substrate 62 and the second substrate 64 may define a cavity 66 and may be substantially parallel. The first surface 62 a and the third surface 64 a may be oriented toward the exterior surface 36 of the concealment apparatus 14. The second surface 62 b and the fourth surface 64 b may be oriented toward the rear surface 48. In this configuration, the contents of the housing including the image sensor 42 and the light source(s) 44 may be significantly hidden from view by the concealment apparatus 14.

Though demonstrated in FIG. 2 as being disposed behind the concealment apparatus 14, the image sensor 42 and the infrared emitters 44 a may be alternatively positioned in various embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the concealment apparatus 14 may be configured to disguise the mirror device 24 (e.g. the alignment apparatus) as well as the one or more alignment features 22. However, the image sensor 42 may be hidden or mounted elsewhere on the vehicle 16. For example, the image sensor 42 may be concealed by one of more materials, panels, and/or coatings that are transmissive in the NIR range of light. Such materials may disguise the image sensor 42 and the infrared emitters 44 a from view without limiting their operation. In this way, the image sensor 42 and the infrared emitters 44 a may be positioned to orient the field of view of the image sensor 42 along the detection direction 52 such that the user 18 may align with the identifying feature (e.g. the facial feature 26, eyes 28, etc.) even though the image sensor 42 and the infrared emitters 44 a may not necessarily aligned behind the concealment apparatus 14.

The cavity 66 may contain an electro-optic medium 68, such as, but not limited to, an electrochromic medium. The cavity 66 may be completely or partially filled with the medium 68. The concealment apparatus 14 may be in communication with a dimming controller via electrical contacts and may comprise various seals to retain the medium 68 in the cavity 66. In this configuration, the concealment apparatus 14 may correspond to an electrochromic mirror element configured to vary in reflectivity in response to a control signal received from the dimming controller via the electrical contacts. The control signal may change an electrical potential supplied to the concealment apparatus 14 to control the reflectivity. In some embodiments, the mirror device 24 may be implemented as a transflective coating 70, which may typically be disposed on the third surface 64 a. The transflective coating 70 may typically comprise a layer containing silver along with additional layers, such as metal, dielectric and/or transparent conducting oxides located above or below the silver comprising layer or both.

In some embodiments, the transflective coating 70 may be implemented as a transflective dielectric coating that may be applied to the fourth surface 64 b. The transflective dielectric coating may be used as an alternative to a metal-based coating for the transflective coating 70. The transflective dielectric coating may be designed to resolve the issues related to the limited transmission in the NIR range for the concealment apparatus 14 and provide NIR transmittance greater than about 20%. The dielectric coating is designed to attain a reflectance level comparable to industry standard, i.e., about 40% to 85%, or about 50% to 75%, or about 55% to 70%. Additionally, the dielectric coating can be designed to attain a neutral color appearance in the visible color range for normal incidence viewing angle up to broad viewing angles. In this way, the disclosure provides for improved transmittance in the NIR range while maintaining visible color performance and mirror functionality.

In some embodiments, the system 10 may further comprise a proximity sensor 72. The proximity sensor 72 may correspond to a capacitive sensor, radar sensor, Doppler sensor, ultrasonic sensor, image or light sensor, or various other sensors that may be configured to identify the user 18 proximate the vehicle 16. In various embodiments, the controller of the system may monitor signals from the proximity sensor 72 and selectively activate various portions of the system 10 in response to the presence of the user 18. For example, in response to the detection of the user 18 within a detection region, the controller may selectively control the concealment apparatus 14, the scanning apparatus 12, as well as one or more illumination sources, display devices, and various devices in communication with the controller of the system 10. In addition, or alternatively, the system may monitor inputs from a user interface, which may operate in response to the proximity sensor 72 or additional sensors that may be incorporated in the vehicle 16.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a flowchart demonstrating a method 80 for controlling the system 10 is shown. The method 80 may begin with the controller of the system 10 initializing an authentication or security authorization routine (82). The method 80 may continue by scanning a region proximate the scanning apparatus 12 for the user 18 (84). The controller may utilize the image sensor 42 or various sensors of the vehicle 16. If the user 18 is not detected in step 86, the controller may continue the scan in step 84. If the user is detected in step 86, the controller may continue to step 88 and control the concealment apparatus 14 to change from the concealed configuration 14 a to the scanning configuration 14 b. In the scanning configuration 14 b, the controller may activate the scanning apparatus 12 to capture biometric data in a field of view of the image sensor 42 (88).

Once the concealment apparatus 14 is in the scanning configuration 14 b, the user 18 may align the identifying feature (e.g. the facial feature 26, eye 28, etc.) with the scanning apparatus 12 by viewing the reflection 30 in the mirror device 24. As the user 18 aligns the identifying feature with the scanning apparatus 12, the controller may process the biometric data and determine an authentication or identification of the user 18 (90). Upon receiving and processing the biometric data, the controller may identify if the authentication is successful (92). If the authentication is not successful or the user 18 has not sufficiently aligned the identifying feature with the scanning apparatus 12, the controller may continue to control the scanning apparatus to capture the biometric data in step 88. In step 92, the controller may also determine if the authentication is unsuccessful due to the biometric data corresponding to an unknown or unauthorized user. In such circumstances, the controller may track unsuccessful authorization or authentication attempts and lock the authentication routine after a predetermined number (e.g. n attempts) of unsuccessful attempts (94). If the authentication routine is locked, the controller may conclude the authentication routine (100).

In step 92, if the controller successfully authenticates or identifies an authorized user, the controller may access a profile or account for the authorized user (96). The controller of the system 10 may further access and/or load a privilege or authorization level as well as various settings for the authorized user (98). The privileges or authorization level of the user may provide the user access a barrier or similarly authorize a transaction. In this way, the system 10, may provide the authorized user access to the vehicle 16 and/or provide an authentication of a pending transaction. Following step 98, the method 80 may conclude in step 100.

Referring now to FIG. 4, the system 10 is demonstrating a number of variations for the feedback apparatus 15 that may be utilized alone or in combination. Accordingly, the flexible solutions implemented in the feedback apparatus 15 may be combined to provide optional feedback mechanisms to improve or provide options for the operation of the system without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, referring first to FIG. 4A, the system is shown comprising the feedback apparatus 15 in the form of a display screen 110. In operation, the display screen 110 may be configured to display the scanning data or image data received from the image sensor 42. Additionally, the concealment apparatus 14 (e.g. the electro-optic device 20, liquid crystal layer, etc.) may be disposed in front of the display screen 110. In this configuration, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to control the concealment apparatus 14 by adjusting the transmission state of the electro-optic device 20 as discussed herein.

In operation, in response to detecting the presence of the user 18 proximate the vehicle 16, the controller may activate the display screen 110 to display the image data captured by the image sensor 42. Additionally, the controller may control the electro-optic device 20 to change from the darkened or substantially opaque state to the substantially transparent state to reveal the display screen 110. Similarly, a liquid crystal shutter may be utilized to mask the appearance of the display screen 110 in a first configuration and transmit light from the display screen in a second configuration. In this way, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to adjust the appearance of the exterior surface 36 to change from the opaque or colored appearance that substantially matches the panel 25 to a light transmissive state configured to reveal the display screen 110 such that light representing the image data from the image sensor 42 may be revealed to the user 18. Accordingly, the system 10 may provide for the concealment apparatus 14 to reveal the feedback apparatus 15, such that the user 18 may align one or more features with the alignment features 22, which may be displayed on the display screen 110. Additionally, the controller may display one or more instructions for alignment on the display screen 110.

Referring to FIG. 4B, in another example, the feedback apparatus 15 may be implemented in the form of the mirror device 24. As previously discussed, the mirror device 24 may be incorporated or formed as a constituent layer of the electro-optic device 20 as shown in FIG. 2. The mirror device 24 may provide for a visual alignment tool for the user 18 to align a facial feature 26, eye 28, and/or various identifying features with the scanning apparatus. For example, the user 18 may view a reflection 30 of the identifying feature in the mirror device 24 to align the feature with the scanning apparatus 12. In some embodiments, the mirror device 24 may comprise one or more alignment features 22 as well as light indicators 34, which may assist the user 18 to align the reflection 30 of the identifying feature and indicate a status of the authentication processed by the system 10, respectively.

In the concealed configuration 14 a, the system 10 may be configured to control the concealment apparatus 14 to match an appearance of a panel 25, which may be located neighboring or adjacent to the concealment apparatus 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the concealment apparatus 14 may be controlled by the controller of the system 10 to adjust a state of the electro-optic device 20 to a substantially opaque condition to achieve the concealed configuration 14 a. In the concealed configuration 14 a, an exterior surface 36 of the concealment apparatus 14 may be darkened to an opaque color, which may correspond to one or more chemical properties of an electro-optic medium 68 of the electro-optic device 20. In an exemplary embodiment, the electro-optic device 20 may be configured to transition from a black appearance in the concealed configuration 14 a to a comparatively transparent appearance in the scanning configuration 14 b. In this way, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to adjust the appearance of the exterior surface 36 to change from a colored appearance that substantially matches the panel 25 to a light transmissive state configured to reveal the mirror device 24. Accordingly, the system 10 may provide for the mirror device 24 to be selectively revealed to assist the user 18 in alignment with the scanning apparatus 12.

Referring now to FIG. 4C, a schematic diagram of the scanning apparatus 12 is shown comprising the feedback apparatus 15 in the form of a backlit static or printed image 114, which may be disposed behind a privacy film 116. The image 114 may correspond to an outline, figure, character, symbol and/or alignment image similar to the alignment feature 22. In an exemplary embodiment, the image 114 may be located behind the privacy film 116 relative to the user 18. Accordingly, in response to the detection of the user 18 based on one or more signals from the proximity sensor 72, the controller of the system 10 may activate a backlight panel 118 configured to illuminate the image 114 by transmitting through an at least partially light transmissive substrate comprising the outline or alignment feature 22. In this configuration, the user 18 may view the image 114 revealed by the backlight 118 to align with the field of view of the image sensor 42. Additionally, the image 114 may only be visible from a limited range of viewing angles due to the directional transmission of the light from the image 114 through the privacy film 116. In this way, when the image 114 is visible, the user 18 may be informed of alignment in the field of view of the image sensor 42.

As discussed herein, the privacy film 116 may correspond to a louver or micro-louver configuration operable to limit the viewing range of the image 114 commensurate to the field of view of the image sensor 42. Accordingly, when the user 18 is aligned with the image sensor 42, the image 114 may be visible such that the user 18 is provided a visible indication of the alignment with the image sensor 42. However, as the user 18 moves outside the field of view of the image sensor 42, the privacy film 116 may obstruct or distort the image 114. In this configuration, the user may be provided a visual feedback from the system 10 indicating the alignment with the image sensor 42. In some implementations, the privacy filter may be tinted in a color similar to the finish color of the panel 25. For example, the privacy filter may be constructed of colored louvres colored to match the color of the panel 25, such that the alignment feature 22 is concealed from view outside the field of view of the image sensor 42.

Referring now to FIG. 4D, a schematic diagram of the scanning apparatus 12 comprising the feedback apparatus 15 in the form of a diffractive optical element 120 is shown. In such embodiments, a laser emission source 122 may be configured to radiate an emission 124 outward through the diffractive optical element 120 toward the user 18. As discussed in reference to various other configurations, the system 10 may be configured to activate the laser emission source 122 in response to the detection of the user 18 by the controller based on the communications from the proximity sensor 72. Accordingly, in response to the detection of the user 18 proximate the scanning apparatus 12, the controller may activate the laser emission source 122 to output the emission 124. The user 18 may look through a portion of the panel 25 that illuminates a virtual image 126 in response to receiving the emission 124. By viewing the virtual image 126, the user 18 may adjust a position to align with the field of view of the image sensor 42. In such an embodiment, the concealment apparatus 14 may not be necessary because the emission 124 may be transmitted through an opaque material utilized for the panel 25. In this way, the system 10 may similarly provide a concealable feedback apparatus 15.

Referring now to FIG. 4E, a schematic diagram of a scanning apparatus comprises the feedback apparatus 15 in the form of the image 114, which may be disposed behind a lens or lens assembly 130. In some embodiments, the lens assembly 130 may comprise a transparent lens 132 a, a Fresnel lens 132 b, and/or a lenticular lens 132 c. The lens assembly 130 may be disposed between the user 18 and the image 114, such that the user 18 may view the image 114 through the lens assembly 130. Further, the image 114 and the lens assembly 130 may be disposed behind the concealment apparatus 14, which may be in the form of the electro-optic device 20 (e.g. electrochromic, liquid crystal shutter, etc.). In this configuration, the controller of the system 10 may be configured to selectively reveal the image 114 to the user 18 in response to a detection of the user 18 by the proximity sensor 72. Once revealed, the image 114 may only be visible over a limited range of viewing angles due to the directional light transmission through the lens assembly 130. Accordingly, alignment within the field of view of the image sensor 42 may be identified by the user 18, when the image 114 is visible. Additionally, as discussed in reference to FIG. 4C, the feedback apparatus 15 may comprise the backlight panel 118, which may be configured to illuminate the image 114 based on the proximity detection of the user 18.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 4E, the lens assembly 130 may be configured in a number of ways to control a viewing window 134 or keyhole. The viewing window 134 may comprise a perimeter 136 defining a boundary through which light transmitted from the image 114 may be transmitted through the lens assembly 130. The perimeter 136 may be aligned or angled, such that the boundaries over which the image 114 is visible are aligned with the extents of the field of view of the image sensor 42. For example, the lens assembly 130 may be arranged with the image 114 or display screen, such that a focal point of the image 114 is aligned in front of the image sensor 42. In this configuration, the image 114 may be visible to the user 18 when the user is aligned with the viewing window 134. Additionally, due to the alignment of the viewing window 134 with the field of view of the image sensor 42, when the image 114 is visible, the user 18 may be aligned or positioned within the field of view of the image sensor 42. Accordingly, the lens assembly 130 may provide for an alignment indication to the user 18.

Additionally, the lens assembly 130 may be configured to gradually distort or occlude the transmission and corresponding visibility of the image 114 from a central portion 134 a of the window 134 to a perimeter portion 134 b disposed proximate the perimeter 136. In this configuration, the lens assembly 130 may be configured to project light corresponding to the image at a first clarity through the central portion 134 a and a second clarity through the perimeter portion 134 b. Beyond the perimeter portion 134 b and the perimeter 136, the light depicting the image 114 may be significantly or completely diminished or occluded such that the image 114 is not visible to the user 18. In this configuration, the lens assembly may provide for segmented or gradual indications that the user 18 is approaching alignment with the field of view of the image sensor 42.

For example, light projected from the backlight panel 118 or a display depicting the image 114 may be transmitted through the lens apparatus 130 through the central portion 134 a at a first quality (e.g. level of brightness, clarity, color, etc.). Additionally, the light depicting the image 114 may be transmitted through the lens apparatus 130 through the perimeter portion 134 a at a second quality. The second quality may correspond to a reduced level of brightness, clarity, color, and/or focus relative to the first quality. In this configuration, the image 114 may appear increasingly clear, bright, etc. The image 114 is viewed through the lens apparatus 130 aligned with the focal point and decreases in clarity, brightness, etc. when viewed away from the focal point of the lens apparatus 130. Accordingly, as the focal point of the lens apparatus is aligned with the field of view of the image sensor 42, the feedback apparatus 15 may demonstrate the image 114 with increasing quality when viewed aligned with the focal point and consequently within the field of view of the image sensor 42. Though discussed as a central portion 134 a and a perimeter portion 134 b, the graduation of the windows, zones, or viewing regions of the window 134 may vary in number to suit a desired operation and user experience. Though the various examples of the system 10 are discussed separately in FIGS. 4A-4E, each of the devices or assemblies may be utilized in various combinations to support the alignment and feedback operations discussed herein.

Referring to FIG. 5, a block diagram of the system 10 incorporating the scanning apparatus 12 and the concealment apparatus 14 is shown. In FIG. 5, the controller 142 of the system 10 is shown in communication with the scanning apparatus 12 and the concealment apparatus 14. The controller 142 may further be in communication with a control module 144 via a communication bus 146 of the vehicle 16. The communication bus 146 may be configured to deliver signals to the controller 142 identifying various states of the vehicle 16. For example, the communication bus 146 may be configured to communicate to the controller 142 a drive selection of the vehicle 16, an ignition state, a door open or ajar status, a remote activation of the scanning apparatus 12, etc. Such information and control signals may be utilized by the controller 142 to activate or adjust various states and/or control schemes of the scanning apparatus 12 and the concealment apparatus 14.

The controller 142 may comprise a processor 148 having one or more circuits configured to control various operations of the system 10. The processor 148 may be in communication with a memory 150 configured to store instructions to control operations of the scanning apparatus 12. For example, the controller 142 may be configured to store one or more characteristics or profiles utilized by the controller 142 to identify the user 18 of the vehicle 16. In this configuration, the controller 142 may communicate operating and identification information with the scanning apparatus 12 to identify the user 18 of the vehicle 16. Additionally, based on the identification of the user 18, the controller 142 may be configured to control and/or communicate with additional systems of the vehicle 16. Such systems may include a security system, speed governor, radio/infotainment system, etc. In this way, one or more systems of the vehicle 16 may be controlled or restricted based on the identity of the user 18.

In some embodiments in response to an identification of a passenger or user 18 of the vehicle 16, the controller 142 may access a database of stored driver preferences to customize aspects of the vehicle 16. For example, the controller 142 may access and enable radio station presets according to a driver's pre-established preferences. Navigation and/or map display settings may be changed or set according to a driver's pre-established preferences. Additionally, the system 10 may be utilized to customize a seat position or height and adjust various operating parameters before the user 18 even enters vehicle. For example, the system may be operable to start the vehicle 16, activate a radio to a preconfigured station or playlist, and activate a climate control to a user setting. Additionally, the database may comprise navigation information comprising known or previously visited locations. In particular, a route to home, work, or other frequently visited locations may be preset upon identification of a driver based on previous use or programming stored in the database.

In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 142 may be configured to process image data received from the image sensor 42. In this configuration, the controller 142 may process the image data with one or more algorithms configured to determine an identity of the user 18 of the vehicle 16. With the identity of the user 18 or one or more passengers of the vehicle 16 identified, the controller 142 may further be operable to control various systems or functions of the vehicle 16.

Though discussed in exemplary reference to the vehicle 16, the system 10 may similarly be implemented to authenticate users to control access or entry through doors or access gates into various buildings, office structures, residences, etc. Similarly, the system 10 may be utilized to authorize various transactions (e.g. access points, purchases, bank transactions, etc.) For example, in a residential setting, the system 10 may be in communication with a smart home system. In such embodiments, based on an authentication of the user 18, the system 10 may grant access to a door or gate of a home and control one or more devices in communication with the smart-home system to load specific settings or preferences of the user 18. In another example, the system 10 may be in communication with a secure authentication system. In such embodiments, based on authentication of the user 18, the system 10 may authorize purchases for the user 18 at secure authentication terminals or grant access to automated teller machines (ATMs) and other banking facilities if the system 10 is in communication with the secure authentication system. Accordingly, the system 10 may be configured to suit a variety of applications without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the controller 142 may utilize the identification of the user 18 of the vehicle 16 to report updates to an administrator of the system 10. For example, in some embodiments, the controller 142 may further comprise one or more communication circuits 152 configured to communicate via a communication network 154. Accordingly, the system 10 may be in communication with a remote server 156 and/or a mobile device 158 via the communication network 154. The communication network 154 may comprise one or more wireless or wired network interfaces or communication protocols. As discussed herein, wireless communication protocols may operate in accordance with communication standards including, but not limited to Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) 802.11 (e.g., WiFi™); Bluetooth®; advanced mobile phone services (AMPS); digital AMPS; global system for mobile communications (GSM); code division multiple access (CDMA); Long Term Evolution (LTE or 4G LTE); local multipoint distribution systems (LMDS); multi-channel-multi-point distribution systems (MMDS); RFID; and/or variations thereof. In this configuration, the controller 142 may be configured to send an alert or message to the administrator of the system 10 in response to one or more predetermined events. The alert or message may correspond to a text message, data message, email, alert via an application operating on a smart device, etc.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention described herein may be comprised of one or more conventional processors and unique stored program instructions that control one or more processors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuits, some, most, or all of the functions of the concealment apparatus 14, as described herein. The non-processor circuits may include, but are not limited to, signal drivers, clock circuits, power source circuits, and/or user input devices. As such, these functions may be interpreted as steps of a method used in using or constructing a classification system. Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each function or some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented as custom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches could be used. Thus, the methods and means for these functions have been described herein. Further, it is expected that one of ordinary skill, notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choices motivated by, for example, available time, current technology, and economic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principles disclosed herein will be readily capable of generating such software instructions and programs and ICs with minimal experimentation.

It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials unless described otherwise herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the invention as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An authentication apparatus configured to identify a user comprising: a scanning apparatus configured to capture an identifying information of the user; a feedback apparatus configured to communicate alignment information for the scanning apparatus to a user; and a controller in communication with the scanning apparatus and the alignment apparatus, wherein the controller is configured to: activate the feedback apparatus to reveal the alignment information identifying an alignment with the scanning apparatus; capture the identifying information of the user; and identify the user in response to the identifying information.
 2. The authentication apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a proximity sensor in communication with the controller, wherein the proximity sensor is configured to communicate a detection signal identifying an object proximate the scanning apparatus.
 3. The authentication apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the proximity sensor is configured to detect a distance of the object and the controller is further configured to compare the distance to a scanning distance threshold.
 4. The authentication apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the scanning distance threshold is a maximum scanning distance in a z-axis direction projected normal to a surface of a b-pillar of a vehicle.
 5. The authentication apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to activate the feedback apparatus in response to the detection of the user proximate the scanning apparatus based on the detection signals.
 6. The authentication apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a mirror device, wherein the concealment device is disposed outboard from the mirror relative to the imager.
 7. The authentication apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the controller is configured to control the concealment device to reveal the mirror in response to the detection of the distance of the object within the scanning distance threshold.
 8. The authentication apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a concealment apparatus comprising an electro-optic device configured to selectively reveal the feedback apparatus to the user.
 9. The scanning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the concealment apparatus is adjacent to an exterior panel of a vehicle.
 10. The authentication apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the electro-optic element comprises a liquid crystal shutter.
 11. The authentication apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the electro-optic element is an electrochromic element.
 12. The authentication apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to: control the electro-optic device to change from a non-transmissive configuration to a transmissive configuration configured to transmit light from the feedback apparatus.
 13. The authentication apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the scanning apparatus comprises an imager and a light source, wherein the light source is configured to output a detection emission comprising an infrared wavelength or near infrared wavelength of light emitted through the concealment apparatus.
 14. The authentication apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the feedback apparatus comprises a display configured to display at least one of a scanning data and an image data received from the imager.
 15. The authentication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the scanning apparatus is configured to capture image data field of view and the authentication apparatus further comprises: a lens assembly configured to transmit the alignment information to a focal point aligned within the field of view.
 16. The authentication apparatus according to claim 15, wherein there the lens assembly is configured to transmit an illuminated figure or image through the lens apparatus at a first quality through a central portion and a second quality through a perimeter portion, wherein the second quality corresponds to a lesser brightness, focus, or clarity than the first quality.
 17. The authentication apparatus according to claim 16, wherein lens apparatus is configured to transmit the illuminated image or figured gradually changing from the first quality through the central portion to the second quality at a perimeter of the perimeter portion.
 18. An method for capturing authentication information for a biometric authentication apparatus, the method comprising: detecting a distance of a user relative to a portion of a vehicle; in response to the distance being less than a scanning threshold, activating a feedback apparatus; revealing visible alignment information communicating an alignment within a field of view of a scanning apparatus; capturing identifying information of the user in response to the user aligned within the field of view; and identifying the user based on the identifying information.
 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the revealing the visible information comprises at least one of: illuminating a figure or image and projecting light therefrom through a privacy film; and controlling an electro-optic apparatus to transmit the light from the figure or image.
 20. An scanning apparatus located on an exterior panel of a vehicle configured to identify a user comprising: the scanning apparatus configured to capture an identifying information of the user; a mirror device configured to reflect a depiction of a user; a concealment apparatus comprising an electro-optic device configured to selectively reveal the mirror device to the user; a proximity sensor configured to detect a distance of the user; and a controller configured to: monitor the distance of the user; in response to the distance less than a scanning threshold distance, control the concealment device to reveal the mirror device; capture the identifying information of the user; and identify the user based on the identifying information. 